USA’s Military Aircraft & Marines Carry Out Fresh Drills in Venezuelan Capital Caracas | N18G
Why It Matters
The drill showcases renewed U.S. military presence in Venezuela, reshaping regional dynamics and influencing energy‑sector investments.
Key Takeaways
- •US conducts first major drill over Caracas since January raid.
- •Two MV-22 Osprey land near US embassy for evacuation exercise.
- •US Navy ships entered Venezuelan Caribbean waters, signaling heightened presence.
- •New Venezuelan government opens oil sector to U.S. interests.
- •Drill underscores Washington’s commitment to Trump’s three‑phase stabilization plan.
Summary
The United States carried out its first large‑scale military exercise over Caracas since the dramatic January operation that reportedly captured former President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. On May 23, two MV‑22 B Osprey aircraft touched down near the U.S. embassy, while naval vessels entered Venezuelan Caribbean waters, framing the event as an emergency evacuation drill for medical or natural‑disaster scenarios.
The drill featured senior Southern Command leader Francis Donovan, who visited the embassy and met with U.S. personnel on the ground. Official statements emphasized Washington’s adherence to President Donald Trump’s three‑phase plan to stabilize Venezuela, while Venezuelan authorities framed the activity as a humanitarian exercise. The information ministry declined to comment, underscoring the opacity surrounding the growing U.S. presence.
The operation follows the installation of a Trump‑backed interim government led by former Vice President Delí Rodríguez, which has already opened Venezuela’s vast oil and mining assets to American firms. Images and videos of Ospreys landing and naval ships patrolling the coast circulated widely, highlighting a tangible shift from covert actions to overt military signaling.
Analysts view the drill as a clear signal that Washington is prepared to maintain a visible foothold in Venezuela, potentially reshaping regional power balances and influencing global energy markets. The move may accelerate foreign investment in Venezuelan resources but also risks heightened tensions with rival powers and domestic opposition.
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